When it comes to aromatherapy, you may know every single all-star essential oil. But what about the honorable mentions that don’t get enough screen time, despite their great performance? Today, we’re highlighting five underrated EOs that we believe will one day be cast in the leading roles of the aromatherapy world. Until then, here’s why these oils are on their way to superstardom.

Ledum: Historically, Ledum has been used to support a variety of ailments. These days, this peppery, herbaceous essential oil is often used to boost energy and decongest. Enjoy both of these benefits by adding Ledum to a personal inhaler and using as needed. Anecdotal evidence also points to Ledum being a good choice as an insect repellent.

Damiana: A mainstay in EG blends such as Tangerine Jasmine, Earth & Wood, Joy and Bee Happy, Damiana gives a sweet and floral complexity to almost any mix. This blissful oil is naturally stress-relieving and can brighten up a cloudy day. Damiana also supports respiratory-related ailments and is often looked to during cold and flu season.

Nootka Tree: With an aroma likened to gasoline and pencil shavings, Nootka Tree has a chemistry as unique as its aroma. High in a constituent aptly named nootkatene, Nootka Tree shared many benefits with other sesquiterpene-rich oils such as Cedarwood, Patchouli, Myrrh and Vetiver. Nootka Tree can be used to ward off bugs, balance emotions, improve the appearance of skin blemishes and encourage restfulness.

Celery Seed: For centuries, Celery Seed has been used around the world as an herbal remedy. With a significant limonene content in the same range as Bergamot and Lime, it’s easy to trace the many benefits of this fruitful EO. Celery Seed encourages relief from pain and inflammation, exhibits antioxidant and antimicrobial activity, reduces skin redness and supports cold and flu symptoms.

Cumin: Native to the Middle East, Cumin’s intense, penetrating aroma is indicative of its deeply healing abilities. Cumin is anti all things bad in the world, including funguses and microbes. As an oil high in an aldehyde called cuminal, Cumin also stops bacteria and viruses. Additionally, this multifaceted oil can support pain and inflammation relief while also keeping bugs at bay.   

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Not everyone gets the credit they deserve. Take for example these five underrated EOs!